Cartridge to phono stage to line input
A compatible moving-magnet cartridge feeds the Tube Phono Stage. Its stereo RIAA-equalized line-level output then feeds a compatible receiver, amplifier, powered speaker system or recording interface. Use a line input downstream; another phono input would apply phono gain and equalization again.
- Moving-magnet cartridge
- Compatible phono stage with RIAA equalization
- Amplifier line input
- Speakers
When the cartridge is moving coil
A suitable passive moving-coil step-up transformer can raise a compatible low-output MC cartridge signal for an MM phono input. The transformer supplies voltage gain, while the phono stage supplies RIAA equalization. Match cartridge output and loading, transformer ratio and the phono input as a system.
Loading, grounding and placement
Cartridge loading includes the phono input and connected cable. Check the cartridge maker's guidance and the complete resistance and capacitance presented by your setup. Follow the exact unit's manual for grounding, tube clearance and ventilation.
Choose from the complete system
Passive speakers need a downstream power amplifier, and headphones need a suitable headphone output. Compare gain, noise, overload and loading information for the selected phono configuration with your cartridge and downstream equipment.